Yankees: Six reasons to bring Joe Girardi back in 2018

Who would replace Girardi

This is perhaps the weakest argument in favor of retaining Joe Girardi. And that’s because it’s like the spouse who refuses to get a divorce only because “who else would want me?”

And it’s not like there wouldn’t be a line out the door from Yankee Stadium onto River Avenue with guys wanting the job. But let’s face it. Girardi has been here for more than a decade, and during that time a host of potential candidates have been hired elsewhere or are in line for the job when the current manager leaves.

All I can safely say is that it won’t be Wally Backman because the Yankees would never go near him, and it won’t be Don Mattingly, because Mattingly, as one one of those people who forgives but never forgets, doesn’t want the Yankees. So let’s leave the speculation where it belongs – nowhere.

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Traditionally, the Yankees, with one glaring exception in Joe Torre, have always looked internally for their managers. The succession of Ralph Houk, Stump Merrill, Billy Martin, and a host of others including Girardi have all made the grade to manager following previous association with the organization.

To that end, the Yankees have Al Pedrique, the current manager at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and Tony Franklin who manages the Double-A Trenton Thunder. Both are highly respected within the organization, but there is little we know about their standing with the Yankees and being equipped to manage at the big league level.

The Yankees would also take a long look at Tony Pena (photo above), who is the current third base coach for the team. Knowledgeable and personable, as well as a man of color, Pena has the credentials to step into the job as quickly as anyone.

While the Yankees or any other team wouldn’t want to go out of their way to engage in the lengthy and risky process of hiring a new manager, there is no way they would let it stop them if they decide a change is warranted or, if Girardi decides to leave on his own accord.

Final Thoughts

Until this season, I’ve never been a big fan of Joe Girardi. Gravitating more to the intellectual type like a Joe Maddon, I’ve always felt that Girardi was a bit too wimpy and too much of a company guy.

And maybe it’s only because I’ve watched him more closely this season, but it seems as though he’s come into his own this year.

Next: Todd Frazier deal reminds of the David Justice trade

Hopefully, the two sides can get together allowing Girardi the opportunity to bring those multiple championships we’ve all been talking about to New York.